A good-value, modern hotel, the Novotel is in the heart of the animated, bar-lined Esplanade area, near the St. Lawrence Market, the Air Canada Centre, Union Station, and the Entertainment District. The recreation facilities are especially extensive for the price with a fitness center, indoor heated saltwater pool, sauna and Jacuzzi. This hotel gets a gold star for its successful renovation--a full refresh of room and lobby decor--without jacking up prices.

room

Cloud murals. Wood Floors. Ergonomic desks. When the Novotel renovates, they go all out. The rooms are practically unrecognizable. Updated and sleek, they scream "minimal chic", with built-in flat screens, safes, modern headboards, floating bedside tables and free Wi-Fi. There are 16 connecting rooms that suits families. Ask about the babysitting.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Not all rooms are renovated yet! The old rooms are unspeakably drab--I'm referring to the flounced bed skirts, among other things--so hold out for updated decor. Some guests comment on the small'ish windows and temporary noise from renovations.

bathroom

What's this? Floor space! The bathrooms are notably roomy. We love the square sinks, glass showers with multi-function hardware, lit shaving mirrors on an arm, dark wood accents and a huge, glowing wall mirror.

lobby

Entering through the four-story building's colonnade of stone arches, guests are instantly assured that they made the right decision. The renovation was a success, updating the lobby with sleek but welcoming furnishings (low sofas, modern lamps) to jazz up the original architectural features, including warm wood paneling and a grand staircase up to the mezzanine level. There's even a modern nook with a rectangular gas fireplace and two orange designer sofas.

pool

Decorated with a sky-blue walls and plastic Muskoka chairs, the new saltwater pool is bright, with natural light. The hot tub is located in a corner decorated with sleek black tiles. The exposed industrial ceiling is painted white, housing extra artificial light to keep things cheery.

spa

While there's no spa at the hotel, there are busy hair salons just steps away.

gym

With walls painted the same sky-blue colour as the pool, the sixth-floor gym is equally cheery, with cardio machines (and TV screens to keep you distracted), free weights on racks, weight machines, benches and core-strengthening tools. There are windows, but you wouldn't say they provide much of a view.

dining

Cafe Nicole, on the main lobby level, is home to the breakfast buffet (not included). Their French toast is worth the carbs. It's very busy, swarming with kids, so make sure to do your meditation app.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Grumbling guests seem to agree that the buffet is convenient, but not nearly worth $19.50 per person.

drinking

Clubby--with tub chairs, a huge screen, and clustered seating--the lobby bar is friendly and welcoming. Connectivity jacks are plentiful, so people check their email there. They also drink, ordering from the generous selection of wine, booze, beer and ale. Easy cocktails are available.